Noriega's "Joke" About Iraqi Oil Production


June 26, 2008

In a blog posting this morning by Gardner Selby of the Austin American Statesman Noriega for Senate campaign spokesperson Holly Shulman claimed that Rick Noriega was "joking" when he said we should "drill in Iraq" to solve our Energy problems. 

Below are four separate instances in which he refers to his "drill in Iraq, not in America" plan in the last 48 hours, three of which are Noriega in his own words.  

Audio of Morning Drive on KCRS, Midland, June 24th

Audio of Midland County Democrats Coffee ,Midland, TX, June 24th

Video of Press Conference in Midland, June 24th

Midland Reporter Telegram June 25, 2008

As the above clearly demonstrates he was not joking, but the bigger issue are his "solutions" to the nation's energy problem.

Fundamentally, his policy doesn't make any sense.  On one hand Noriega claims Iraq is in a "civil war", on the other hand he wants us to rely on them for more of our oil.  The basis for Noriega's candidacy is his strenuous objection to the  surge policy in Iraq.  This is the very policy that has provided greater security allowing for increased oil production as of late.  To the extent Iraq oil production increases, it will be directly tied to a more stable Iraq.  

Does Rick Noriega acknowledge that greater Iraqi production will only come with greater security?  Does Rick Noriega really think an immediate withdrawal of the US Military in Iraq will contribute to their ability explore more of their resources?   If so, he would be in a position not shared by any serious political figure in America. 

Candidly, I don't know which is worse, Rick Noriega's bizarre solutions to the Energy crisis, or his unwillingness to own up to them.

-Rob Jesmer, Campaign Manager, Texans for John Cornyn

Comments

Jim Scott said…

This is not much of a joke to me.

I can't believe it.

2 months